check engine light Hyundai Accent 2003 Owner's Manual

1- 34 FEATURES OF YOUR HYUNDAI
B260B01A-AAT
SRS (AIRBAG) SERVICE RE-
MINDER INDICATOR (SRI)
The SRS service reminder indicator (SRI) comes
on and flashes for about 6 seconds after the
ignition key is turned to the "ON" position or
after the engine is started, after which it will go
out.
This light also comes on when the SRS is not
working properly. If the SRI does not come on,
or continuously remains on after flashing for
about 6 seconds when you turned the ignition
key to the "ON" position or started the engine,
or if it comes on while driving, have the SRS
inspected by an authorized Hyundai Dealer.
B260P02Y-GAT
ABS SERVICE REMINDER IN-
DICATOR (SRI) (If Installed)
When the key is turned to the "ON" position, the
Anti-Lock Brake System SRI will come on and
then go off in a few seconds. If the ABS SRI
remains on, comes on while driving, or does not
come on when the key is turned to the "ON"
position, this indicates that there may be a
problem with the ABS.
If this occurs, have your vehicle checked by
your Hyundai dealer as soon as possible. The
normal braking system will still be operational,
but without the assistance of the anti-lock brake
system.
WARNING:If both ABS SRI and Parking Brake/Brake fluid
level warning lights remain "ON" or come on
while driving, there may be a problem with
E.B.D (Electronic Brake Force Distribution).
If this occurs, avoid sudden stops and have
your vehicle checked by your Hyundai dealer
as soon as possible.
B260F01A-AAT
HIGH BEAM INDICATOR LIGHT
The high beam indicator light comes on when-
ever the headlights are switched to the high
beam or flash position.
B260C01A-AAT
O/D OFF INDICATOR
(Automatic Transaxle only)
When the overdrive switch is turned on, the
overdrive off indicator will go out. This amber
indicator will be illuminated when the overdrive
switch is turned off (Auto T/A only).
B260D01A-AAT
TURN SIGNAL INDICATOR
LIGHTS
The blinking green arrow on the instrument
panel shows the direction indicated by the turn
signals. If the arrow comes on but does not
blink, blinks more rapidly than normal, or does
not blink at all, a malfunction in the turn signal
system is indicated. Your dealer should be con-
sulted for repairs.
B260G01A-AAT
LOW OIL PRESSURE WARNING
LIGHT
CAUTION:If the oil pressure warning light stays on while
the engine is running, serious engine damage
may result. The oil pressure warning light
comes on whenever there is insufficient oil
pressure. In normal operation, it should come
on when the ignition switch is turned on, then
go out when the engine is started. If the oil
pressure warning light stays on while the
engine is running, there is a serious malfunc-
tion.
If this happens, stop the car as soon as it is
safe to do so, turn off the engine and check the
oil level. If the oil level is low, fill the engine oil
to the proper level and start the engine again.
If the light stays on with the engine running,
turn the engine off immediately. In any in-
stance where the oil light stays on when the
engine is running, the engine should be
checked by a Hyundai dealer before the car is
driven again.
!
!

FEATURES OF YOUR HYUNDAI 1- 35
B260H03A-AAT
PARKING BRAKE/
LOW BRAKE FLUID LEVEL
WARNING LIGHT
CAUTION:
If you suspect brake trouble, have your brakes
checked by a Hyundai dealer as soon as pos-
sible. Driving your car with a problem in either
the brake electrical system or brake hydraulic
system is dangerous, and could result in se-
rious injury or death.
Warning Light Operation
The parking brake/brake fluid level warning light
should come on when the parking brake is
applied and the ignition switch is turned to "ON"
or "START". After the engine is started, the light
should go out when the parking brake is re-
leased.
If the parking brake is not applied, the warning
light should come on when the ignition switch is
turned to "ON" or "START", then go out when
the engine starts. If the light comes on at any
other time, you should slow the vehicle and
bring it to a complete stop in a safe location off
the roadway.
The brake fluid level warning light indicates
that the brake fluid level in the brake master
cylinder is low and brake fluid conforming to
DOT 3 or DOT 4 specifications should be
added. After adding fluid, if no other trouble is
!
B260J01A-AAT
CHARGING SYSTEM WARNING
LIGHT
The charging system warning light should come
on when the ignition is turned on, then go out
when the engine is running. If the light stays on
while the engine is running, there is a malfunc-
tion in the electrical charging system. If the light
comes on while you are driving, stop, turn off the
engine and check under the hood. First, make
certain the generator drive belt is in place. If it is,
check the tension of the belt. Do this as shown
on page 6-17 by pushing down on the center
of the belt. And then have the system checked
by your Hyundai dealer.
B260M01A-AAT
LOW FUEL LEVEL WARNING
LIGHT
The low fuel level warning light comes on when
the fuel tank is approaching empty. When it
comes on, you should add fuel as soon as
possible. Driving with the fuel level warning light
on or with the fuel level below "E" can cause the
engine to misfire and damage the catalytic con-
verter. found, the car should be immediately and
carefully driven to a Hyundai dealer for
inspection. If further trouble is experienced,
the vehicle should not be driven at all but taken
to a dealer by a professional towing service.
Your Hyundai is equipped with dual-diagonal
braking systems. This means you still have
braking on two wheels even if one of the dual
systems should fail. With only one of the dual
systems working, more than normal pedal travel
and greater pedal pressure are required to stop
the car. Also, the car will not stop in as short a
distance with only a portion of the brake system
working. If the brakes fail while you are driving,
shift to a lower gear for additional engine braking
and stop the car as soon as it is safe to do so.
B260L02HP-GAT
DOOR AJAR WARNING LIGHT
AND CHIME (If Installed)
The door ajar warning light warns you that a
door is not completely closed and the chime
warns you that the key is in the ignition switch.
NOTE :The warning chime only sounds whenever
the key is in the ignition switch and the driver's
side front door is open simultaneously. The
chime sounds until the key is removed from
the ignition switch or the driver's side front
door is closed.

FEATURES OF YOUR HYUNDAI 1- 53
The fuel-filler lid may be opened from inside the
vehicle by pulling up on the fuel-filler lid opener
located on the front floor area on the left side of
the car.
NOTE:If the fuel-filler lid will not open because ice
has formed around it, tap lightly or push on
the lid to break the ice and release the lid. Do
not pry on the lid. If necessary, spray around
the lid with an approved de-icer fluid (do not
use radiator anti-freeze) or move the vehicle
to a warm place and allow the ice to melt.
WARNING:o The fuel cap must be tightened at least 3
clicks, otherwise " " light will illumi-
nate.
o Gasoline vapors are dangerous. Before
refueling, always stop the engine and
never allow sparks or open flames near
the filler area. If you need to replace the
filler cap, use a genuine Hyundai replace-
ment part.
o If you open the fuel filler cap during high
ambient temperatures, a slight "pressure
sound" may be heard. This is normal and
not a cause for concern.
Whenever you open the fuel filler cap,
turn it slowly.
o Make sure the fuel filler cap is replaced
and securely seated after fueling. Failure
to replace or fully seat the fuel filler cap
will result in fuel vapors escaping into the
atmosphere and the check engine (MIL)
indicator " " illuminating.
o Do not "TOP-OFF" after the first nozzle
shut off when refueling.
HLC2016
B540A01E-GAT
TRUNK LID (4 DOOR)
Remote Trunk Lid Release
B540D01A
To open the trunk lid without using the key, pull
up the lid release lever.
To close, lower the trunk lid, then press down on
it until it locks. To be sure the trunk lid is
securely fastened, always try to pull it up again.
WARNING:The trunk lid should always be kept com-
pletely closed while the vehicle is in motion. If
it is left open or ajar, poisonous exhaust
gases may enter the car resulting in serious
illness or death to the occupants. See addi-
tional warnings concerning exhaust gases on
page 2-2.
!
!

DRIVING YOUR HYUNDAI 2- 3
C020A01A-AATBEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
Before you start the engine, you should always:
1. Look around the vehicle to be sure there are
no flat tires, puddles of oil or water or other
indications of possible trouble.
2. After entering the car, check to be sure the
parking brake is engaged.
3. Check that all windows, and lights are clean.
4. Check that the interior and exterior mirrors
are clean and in position.
5. Check your seat, seatback and headrest to
be sure they are in their proper positions.
6. Lock all the doors.
7. Fasten your seat belt and be sure that all
other occupants have fastened theirs.
8. Turn off all lights and accessories that are
not needed.
9. When you turn the ignition switch to "ON",
check that all appropriate warning lights are
operating and that you have sufficient fuel.
10. Check the operation of warning lights and all
bulbs when key is in the "ON" position.
C030A01A-AATCOMBINATION IGNITION SWITCH
To Start the Engine
o If your Hyundai is equipped with a manual
transaxle, place the shift lever in neutral and
depress the clutch pedal fully.
o If your Hyundai has an automatic transaxle,
place the shift lever in "P" (park).
o To start the engine, insert the ignition key
and turn it to the "START" position. Release
it as soon as the engine starts. Do not hold
the key in the "START" position for more
than 15 seconds.
NOTE:o For safety, the engine will not start if the
clutch pedal is not depressed fully (Manual
Transaxle) or the shift lever is not in "P"
or "N" Position (Automatic Transaxle).
o The ignition key cannot be turned from
"ACC" position to "LOCK" position un-
less the shift lever is in the "P" (Park)
position or the negative battery terminal
is disconnected from the battery. (For
Automatic Transaxle)
C040A01A-AATKEY POSITIONS
C040A01E
LOCKACC
ON
START
WARNING:The engine should not be turned off or the
key removed from the ignition key cylinder
while the vehicle is in motion. The steering
wheel is locked by removing the key.
o "START"
The engine is started in this position. It will crank
until you release the key.
NOTE:Do not hold the key in the "START" position
for more than 15 seconds.
!

2- 10 DRIVING YOUR HYUNDAI
C130A01A-AATGOOD BRAKING PRACTICES
WARNING:
Nothing should be carried on top of the shelf
panel behind the rear seat. If there were an
accident or a sudden stop, such objects
could move forward and cause damage to
the vehicle or injure the occupants.
!
o After being parked, check to be sure the
parking brake is not engaged and that the
parking brake indicator light is out before
driving away.
o Driving through water may get the brakes
wet. They can also get wet when the car is
washed. Wet brakes can be dangerous! Your
car will not stop as quickly if the brakes are
wet. Wet brakes may cause the car to pull to
one side. To dry the brakes, apply the brakes
lightly until the braking action returns to nor-
mal, taking care to keep the car under con-
trol at all times. If the braking action does not
return to normal, stop as soon as it is safe to
do so and call your Hyundai dealer for assis-
tance.
o Don't coast down hills with the car out of
gear. This is extremely hazardous. Keep the
car in gear at all times, use the brakes to
slow down, then shift to a lower gear so that
engine braking will help you maintain a safe
speed.o Don't "ride" the brake pedal. Resting your
foot on the brake pedal while driving can be
dangerous because it can result in the brakes
overheating and losing their effectiveness. It
also increases the wear of the brake compo-
nents.
o If a tire goes flat while you are driving, apply
the brakes gently and keep the car pointed
straight ahead while you slow down. When
you are moving slowly enough for it to be
safe to do so, pull off the road and stop in a
safe place.
o If your car is equipped with an automatic
transaxle, don't let your car creep forward.
To avoid creeping forward, keep your foot on
the brake pedal when the car is stopped.
o Use caution when parking on a hill. Engage
the parking brake and place the gear selec-
tor lever in "P" (automatic transaxle) or in
first or reverse gear (manual transaxle). If
your car is facing downhill, turn the front
wheels into the curb to help keep the car
from rolling. If your car is facing uphill, turn
the front wheels away from the curb to help
keep the car from rolling. If there is no curb
or if it is required by other conditions to keep
the car from rolling, block the wheels.
o Under some conditions your parking brake
can freeze in the engaged position. This is
most likely to happen when there is an accu-
mulation of snow or ice around or near the
rear brakes or if the brakes are wet. If there
is a risk that the parking brake may freeze,apply it only temporarily while you put the
gear selector lever in "P" (automatic) or in
first or reverse gear (manual transaxle) and
block the rear wheels so the car cannot roll.
Then release the parking brake.
o Do not hold the vehicle on the upgrade with
the accelerator pedal. This can cause the
transmission to overheat. Always use the
brake pedal or parking brake.C120A02A-AAT
ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM
(If Installed)
The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) is designed
to prevent wheel lock-up during sudden braking
or on hazardous road surfaces. The ABS con-
trol module monitors the wheel speed and con-
trols the pressure applied to each brake. Thus,
in emergency situations or on slick roads, ABS
will increase vehicle control during braking.
NOTE:During ABS operation, a slight pulsation
may be felt in the brake pedal when the
brakes are applied. Also, a noise may be
heard in the engine compartment while brak-
ing. These conditions are normal and indi-
cate that the anti-lock brake system is func-
tioning properly.

DRIVING YOUR HYUNDAI 2- 11
WARNING:ABS will not prevent accidents due to
improper or dangerous driving maneu-
vers. Even though vehicle control is im-
proved during emergency braking, always
maintain a safe distance between you and
objects ahead. Vehicle speeds should al-
ways be reduced during extreme road
conditions.
The braking distance for cars equipped
with an anti-lock braking system may be
longer than for those without it in the
following road conditions.
o Driving on rough, gravel or snow-cov-
ered roads.
o Driving with tire chains installed.
o Driving on roads where the road surface
is pitted or has different surface height.
These roads should be driven at reduced
speeds. The safety features of an ABS
equipped vehicle should not be tested by
high speed driving or cornering. This could
endanger the safety of yourself or others.
!
C140A01A-AATDRIVING FOR ECONOMY
You can save fuel and get more miles from your
car if you follow these suggestions:
o Drive smoothly. Accelerate at a moderate
rate. Don't make "jack-rabbit" starts or full-
throttle shifts and maintain a steady cruising
speed. Don't race between stoplights. Try to
adjust your speed to that of the other traffic
so you don't have to change speeds unnec-
essarily. Avoid heavy traffic whenever possi-
ble. Always maintain a safe distance from
other vehicles so you can avoid unneces-
sary braking. This also reduces brake wear.
o Drive at a moderate speed. The faster you
drive, the more fuel your car uses. Driving at
a moderate speed, especially on the high-
way, is one of the most effective ways to
reduce fuel consumption.
o Don't "ride" the brake or clutch pedal. This
can increase fuel consumption and also in-
crease wear on these components. In addi-
tion, driving with your foot resting on the
brake pedal may cause the brakes to over-
heat, which reduces their effectiveness and
may lead to more serious consequences.
o Take care of your tires. Keep them inflated to
the recommended pressure. Incorrect infla-
tion, either too much or too little, results in
unnecessary tire wear. Check the tire pres-
sures at least once a month.o Be sure that the wheels are aligned correct-
ly. Improper alignment can result from hitting
curbs or driving too fast over irregular surfac-
es. Poor alignment causes faster tire wear
and may also result in other problems as well
as greater fuel consumption.
o Keep your car in good condition. For better
fuel economy and reduced maintenance
costs, maintain your car in accordance with
the maintenance schedule in Section 5. If
you drive your car in severe conditions, more
frequent maintenance is required (see Sec-
tion 5 for details).
o Keep your car clean. For maximum service,
your Hyundai should be kept clean and free
of corrosive materials. It is especially impor-
tant that mud, dirt, ice, etc. not be allowed to
accumulate on the underside of the car. This
extra weight can result in increased fuel
consumption and also contribute to corro-
sion.
o Travel lightly. Don't carry unnecessary weight
in your car. Weight reduces fuel economy.
o Don't let the engine idle longer than neces-
sary. If you are waiting (and not in traffic),
turn off your engine and restart only when
you're ready to go.
o Remember, your Hyundai does not require
extended warm-up. As soon as the engine is
running smoothly, you can drive away. In
very cold weather, however, give your en-
gine a slightly longer warm-up period.

DRIVING YOUR HYUNDAI 2- 13
C160H01A-AAT
Use Approved Anti-Freeze in Window
Washer System
To keep the water in the window washer system
from freezing, add an approved anti-freeze so-
lution in accordance with instructions on the
container. Window washer anti-freeze is avail-
able from Hyundai dealers and most auto parts
outlets. Do not use engine coolant or other types
of anti-freeze as these may damage the finish.
C160F01A-AATCheck Spark Plugs and Ignition
System
Inspect your spark plugs as described in Sec-
tion 6 and replace them if necessary. Also
check all ignition wiring and components to be
sure they are not cracked, worn or damaged in
any way.
C160G01A-AAT
To Keep Locks from Freezing
To keep the locks from freezing, squirt an ap-
proved de-icer fluid or glycerine into the key
opening. If a lock is covered with ice, squirt it
with an approved de-icing fluid to remove the
ice. If the lock is frozen internally, you may be
able to thaw it out by using a heated key. Handle
the heated key with care to avoid burning the
fingers.
C160I01A-AATDon't Let Your Parking Brake Freeze
Under some conditions your parking brake can
freeze in the engaged position. This is most
likely to happen when there is an accumulation
of snow or ice around or near the rear brakes or
if the brakes are wet. If you think the parking
brake may freeze, apply it only temporarily while
you put the gear selector lever in "P" (automatic)
or in first or reverse gear (manual transaxle) and
block the rear wheels so the car cannot roll.
Then release the parking brake.
C160K01A-AATCarry Emergency Equipment
Depending on the severity of the weather where
you drive your car, you should carry appropriate
emergency equipment. Some of the items you
may want to carry include tire chains, tow straps
or chains, flashlight, emergency flares, sand, a
shovel, jumper cables, a window scraper, gloves,
ground cloth, coveralls, a blanket, etc.
C160J01A-AAT
Don't Let Ice and Snow Accumulate
Underneath
Under some conditions, snow and ice can build
up under the fenders and interfere with the
steering. When driving in severe winter condi-
tions where this may happen, you should peri-
odically check underneath the car to be sure the
movement of the front wheels and the steering
components is not obstructed.
C170A01A-AAT
HIGHER SPEED MOTORING
Pre-Trip Inspections
1. Tires:
Adjust the tire inflation pressures for highway
driving. Low tire inflation pressures will result in
overheating and possible failure of the tires.
Avoid using worn or damaged tires which may
result in reduced traction or tire failure.
NOTE:Never exceed the maximum tire inflation pres-
sure shown on the tires.
2. Fuel, engine coolant and engine oil:
High speed travel consumes 1.5 times more fuel
than urban motoring. Do not forget to check both
engine coolant and engine oil.
3. Drive belt:
A loose or damaged drive belt may result in
overheating of the engine.

3- 2 WHAT TO DO IN AN EMERGENCY
!
D010B02A-AAT
If Engine Doesn't Turn Over or Turns
Over Slowly
D010A01A-AATIF THE ENGINE WILL NOT START
D010C01A-AATIf Engine Turns Over Normally but Does
Not Start
1. Check fuel level.
2. Check all connectors at ignition coil and
spark plugs. Reconnect any that may be
disconnected or loose.
3. Check the fuel line in the engine room.
4. If the engine still refuses to start, call a
Hyundai dealer or seek other qualified assis-
tance.
D010D01A-AAT
If the Engine Stalls While Driving
1. Reduce your speed gradually, keeping a
straight line. Move cautiously off the road to
a safe place.
2. Turn on your emergency flashers.
3. Try to start the engine again. If your vehicle
will not start, contact a Hyundai dealer or
seek other qualified assistance.
WARNING:If the engine will not start, do not push or
pull the car to start it. This could result in a
collision or cause other damage. In addition,
push or pull starting may cause the catalytic
converter to be overloaded and create a fire
hazard.
D010B01AD010C01A-D
1. If your car has an automatic transaxle, be
sure the gear selector lever is in "N" or "P"
and the emergency brake is set.
2. Check the battery connections to be sure
they are clean and tight.
3. Turn on the interior light. If the light dims or
goes out when you operate the starter, the
battery is discharged.
4. Check the starter connections to be sure
they are securely tightened.
5. Do not push or pull the vehicle to start it. See
instructions for "Jump Starting".

WHAT TO DO IN AN EMERGENCY 3- 3
D020A02A-AATJUMP STARTING
WARNING:
The gas produced by the battery during the
jump-start operation is highly explosive. If
these instructions are not followed exactly,
serious personal injury and damage to the
vehicle may occur! If you are not sure how to
follow this procedure, seek qualified assis-
tance. Automobile batteries contain sulfuric
acid. This is poisonous and highly corrosive.
When jump starting, wear protective glasses
and be careful not to get acid on yourself,
your clothing or on the car.Discharged
battery
Booster
battery
HLC4001
!
o If you should accidentally get acid on your
skin or in your eyes, immediately remove
any contaminated clothing and flush the area
with clear water for at least 15 minutes. Then
promptly obtain medical attention. If you must
be transported to an emergency facility, con-
tinue to apply water to the affected area with
a sponge or cloth.
o The gas produced by the battery during the
jump-start operation is highly explosive. Do
not smoke or allow a spark or open flame in
the vicinity.
o The battery being used to provide the jump
start must be 12-volt. If you cannot deter-
mine that it is a 12-volt battery, do not at-
tempt to use it for the jump start.
o To jump start a car with a discharged battery,
follow this procedure exactly:
1. If the booster battery is installed in another
vehicle, be sure the two vehicles are not
touching.
2. Turn off all unnecessary lights and acces-
sories in both vehicles.
3. Attach the clamps of the jumper cable in the
exact location shown on the previous page.
First, attach one clamp of the jumper cable to
the positive (+) post or cable of the dis-
charged battery. Then attach the other end
of the same cable to the positive (+) post or
cable of the booster battery. Next, using the
other cable, attach one clamp to the nega-
tive (-) post or cable of the booster battery.Then attach the other end of that cable to a
solid metal part of the engine away from the
battery. Do not connect the cable to any
moving part.
4. Start the engine in the car with the booster
battery and let it run for a few minutes. This
will help to assure that the booster battery is
fully charged. During the jumping operation,
run the engine in this vehicle at about 2000
rpm.
5. Start the engine in the car with the dis-
charged battery using the normal starting
procedure. After the engine starts, leave the
jumper cables connected and let the engine
run at fast idle or about 2000 rpm for several
minutes.
6. Carefully remove the jumper cables in the
reverse order of attachment.
If you do not know why your battery became
discharged (because the lights were left on,
etc.), have the charging system checked by
your Hyundai dealer.

DO-IT-YOURSELF MAINTENANCE 6- 3
G020C01A-AATVehicle Interior
The following should be checked each time
when the vehicle is driven:
o Light operation
o Windshield wiper operation
o Horn operation
o Defroster, heater system operation (and air
conditioning, if installed)
o Steering operation and condition
o Mirror condition and operation
o Turn signal operation
o Accelerator pedal operation
o Brake operation, including parking brake
o Manual transaxle operation, including clutch
operation
o Automatic transaxle operation, including
"Park" mechanism operation
o Seat control condition and operation
o Seat belt condition and operation
o Sun visor operation
If you notice anything that does not operate
correctly or appear to be functioning correctly,
inspect it carefully and seek assistance from
your Hyundai dealer if service is needed.
G020A01A-AATGENERAL CHECKS
Engine Compartment
The following should be checked regularly:
o Engine oil level and condition
o Transaxle fluid level and condition
o Brake fluid level
o Clutch fluid level
o Engine coolant level
o Windshield washer fluid level
o Accessory drive belt condition
o Engine coolant hose condition
o Fluid leaks (on or below components)
o Power steering fluid level and condition
o Battery Condition
o Air filter condition
G020B01A-AATVehicle Exterior
The following should be checked monthly:
o Overall appearance and condition
o Wheel condition and wheel nut tightness
o Exhaust system condition
o Light condition and operation
o Windshield glass condition
o Wiper blade condition
o Paint condition and body corrosion
o Fluid leaks
o Door and hood lock condition
o Tire pressure and condition
(including spare tire)